Freshwater Shark (Borali Mas-বৰালি)

The Borali fish, also known as Borali Mahseer, is a significant freshwater species native to the rivers and streams of the Himalayan region in South Asia. Known for their impressive size, these fish can grow to several kilograms, with robust, elongated bodies and large, shiny scales that typically exhibit silver, gray, or golden hues. Their strong fins and forked tails are well-adapted for navigating the fast currents of their riverine habitats. Preferring clean, well-oxygenated water at cooler temperatures, Borali fish are commonly found in rocky-bottomed rivers at higher altitudes across India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. They are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation, insects, small invertebrates, and other fish, and are notable for their migratory behavior during the monsoon season when they swim upstream to spawn. Economically valuable for their taste and size, Borali fish play an important role in local diets and recreational fishing. However, they face threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and overfishing, making conservation efforts vital to their survival and the health of their ecosystems.